There are a number of routes to market and most businesses use a combination of these, in order to decide which ones will work best for your business you need to think about what you’re selling, where you’re located and where your customers are.

It’s important to research all these questions before you decide which routes you will take.The Cumbria Growth Hub Toolkit shows you how to research effectively, to find out if you’re eligible click here.

Some options you have are:

• your own website
• selling via e-marketplaces (such as Amazon, ebay or Etsy)
• via wholesalers, distributors or agents
• direct into shops
• your own shop
• exporting your goods.

Whatever route you take you need to think about how you’ll market your product or service, potential new customers will not automatically know you are there. The best form of marketing is word of mouth from existing customers, if you make them very happy they will become advocates of your business and recommend you to friends and colleagues. These recommendations can be both offline, face to face, and online, via social media.

Depending on your product or service you may be interested in applying for government contracts, if so have a look at the contracts finder for business opportunities from government departments and agencies.